Bellissima nodded at Winter Heart, "And that would have been a decent procedure, but only after all of the team were aware of it.  Creating confusing in your own team is counterproductive."

She nodded at Garcia, "Thanks for arranging for those and the training Garcia, that is an good idea." She was especially appreciative of the Dreger ability to protect them from possible gas attacks, although her visions did show her that Holly had been exercising among the plants with no signs of harm. "My last vision of Holly showed her exercising among the plants with no sign of harm, but that doesn't mean the plants can't be triggered to attack or release a gas when threatened."

As Justicar entered the room they were all in to present his findings, she listened intently as he described what he had discovered.  "Excellent recon, Justicar.  This info is much different than we had ever expected." She frowned in thought, "I can read the psychic impressions from the samples, but I doubt I can get a schematic from the pieces, they are no longer part of the whole.  I hope I am wrong, but it might tell me if my telemechanics will work on an techno-organic machine."

She nodded as Justicar relayed his information about Dr Phage, what she looked up matching what Justicar had provided, "Z has identified the plants as being bacteriophages as well."

She reached forward and pulled the sample bag with the metals shavings over to her first.  She poured the shavings gently into the palm of her hand as she closed her eyes and sent her awareness into the shavings.  Pulling what information she could about the techno-organic ship.

OOC: 17:24, Today: Bellissima rolled 33 using 1d100.  Psychic Present: 46%.
17:23, Today: Bellissima rolled 53 using 1d100.  Psychic Images: 56%.
17:23, Today: Bellissima rolled 82 using 1d100.  Psychic Impressions: 64%.

Six minutes later, she finished reading the metal shavings, she would pour the shavings back into the bag and then placed it with the other samples before pulling a bag with the largest plant specimen to her.  She reached her finger into the bag and lightly touched the plant, sending her awareness around the plant to pull what psychic images she could.

OOC: 17:30, Today: Bellissima rolled 73 using 1d100.  Psychic Present: 46%.
17:29, Today: Bellissima rolled 9 using 1d100.  Psychic Images: 56%.
17:29, Today: Bellissima rolled 86 using 1d100.  Psychic Impresses: 64%.

Eleven minutes later, she finished reading the plant, she would close the sample bag and place it down with the rest.  Taking a deep breath, mentally still tired, but knowing that she was probably going to exhaust herself by the end of this mission. Organizing her thoughts, she got ready to tell the others what she had learned.

PM
[Private to Bellissima: From the metal shavings, there are

Images
• several different groups of one or two people boarding a submarine from a small boat
• groups of four or five people boarding a submarine at a metal dock
• groups of four or five people debarking at a metal dock
• several of these groups are carrying some of the objects stolen from the vault

and the present which shows the submarine at the island
from the plant parts, there are only images of some sort of scientist working with odd devices (probably one of a kind mechanisms) on petri dishes, then glass bowls, then fishtanks all containing a single amoeboid life form]

I can swim, and hold my breath for about ten minutes or so, CMZ throws into the conversation before JUSTICAR's return.
He looks to Lt Smohk.  You wouldn't happen to have a small lab on board, would you?  Somewhere with a microscope, where we can look at these samples.....

Bellissima opened her eyes and looked at everyone, "I didn't get much.  The metal shavings are from the submarine. It is currently docked at the island.  The most interesting thing I saw was 5 people leaving the submarine carrying items stolen from the bank.  It looks like we have possibly 5 villains to deal with."

The tall brunette gestured at the bag of plant cuttings, "From the plant the only thing I got from it was a person wearing a lab coat working with odd devices that I am unable to identify on petri dishes on up to a fish tank on what looked like single amoeboid life form."

She paused in thought as she tried to recall any identify details from the images of the people.  While she was trying to identify the people in her images, she turned toward Captain Smohk, "Of course we will keep your secret, this is just a water rescue ship."

[Private to GM: Did she recognize any of the people she saw?    Was the scientist Dr. Phage?  My research roll might have gotten a picture to compare to.
No, and there were varying groups of people, not the same five each time. The scientist would resemble pictures of Dr. Javier Lemarr, there are no images available showing him as Dr. Phage.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:25, Thu 08 Dec 2022.

In reply to Chimp Man Z (msg # 84):

Justicar supplies, "... I .. have a 'Lab' I can unpack from the Justicar's stores. Its minituraized but its weight is mostly insignificant to the Justicar's carry capacity."

He lists off its components...

Private/Portable Laboratory: This is another impressive portable unit that can perform several functions.
1 . Microscope in a specially padded housing.
2. One dozen specimen slides and another dozen specimen trays for storage and transportation of item(s)
for further analysis. A variety of vials, jars and test tubes.
3. An incubation chamber that is about the size of a VCR ( 1 8x1 2x8 inches/45x30x20 cm) .
4. Four burners.
5. Instrument tray with a variety of common tools, such as scalpels, tweezers, pins, tape, needles, calculators
6. A refrigeration chamber which is about half the size of the incubation chamber.
7. An isolation chamber. A special, airtight, sealable compartment about the size of the incubation chamber.
8. A cabinet which holds several dozen chemicals commonly needed in the analysis of chemical structures.
9. Centrifuge Device.
10. Dosimeter.
11 . Mini-Tape recorder.
12. Mini-computer.
13. Mini-still camera, 35mm, 32 photo capacity.
14. Toxic analyzer identical to the one used in the "portable bio-scan".
{58lbs}

"Also.. my Drone-Zeta has a on-board Chemical Analysis System."

Chemical Analysis System = A fully automated computer analysis system that can do a complete chemical analysis of
blood, drugs, liquids, and gases within 304 melees (45 to 1 80 seconds). Over 60,000 chemicals are stored in its memory with
room for 1 000 additions. Likelihood of a full, exact analysis is 86%. A failed roll means it can not identify the substance

"I can unpack and set it all up in say 5 minutes... if you think it would be useful CMZ?"

Turning to Captain Smohk, "Of course Captain, you have our word ~ You have been nothing but helpful to the Sentinels. I've slated all video footage of the Justicar's time onboard your vessel to be erased and removed from my memory buffer... after submission to your technician's for review."
This message was last edited by the player at 11:14, Thu 08 Dec 2022.

"It is water rescue. This is a fact." Winter Herald took his opportunity to ask his question. "Justicar, entry points - what can you tell me about what you have learned? Or are your findings in non-verbal form?"

In reply to Winter Herald (msg # 88):

Justicar directs attention to the display monitor and replays the detailed close-up video record of his drones survey of each of the surface and underwater locales of hatches or the submarine tidepool docking collar/airlock.

"...I have detailed visuals recorded by drone recon. But I personally have little experience in burglery and bypassing security alarms systems... if that is what your asking?"

OOC: This is where SSOGM, must provide details.. as he has not given me anymore then already revealed!
This message was last edited by the player at 11:12, Thu 08 Dec 2022.

"There are no other reliable entries? I am ensuring this, because we need to know how we are getting in. I am not limited by oxygen. Only ocean pressure is a threat to me. I can dive to a shallow point, although I will look terrible when I come up. If that is our point of entry, then that is our point, and the only questions will be if we are entering directly or via their submarine, and who can actually do this." This was the best he was going to get, from the looks of it.

It was time for Winter Herald to compile the data.

OOC: 06:14, Today: Winter Herald rolled 7 using 1d100.  Intelligence. TN 98.
Oh, boom. I know everything important on a military analyst level, if the pieces to make that conclusion have crossed my plate.

The submarine completely covers ingress to the submarine dock, the other two hatches are on the surface of the island.

In reply to SSOGM (msg # 91):

Question: Did Justicar's ultrasound and or deep radar scan reveal anything about the bio-vessel interior layout?

Combining the observations made by JUSTICAR's drones and sensors with the information gleaned from other sources, a picture of the exact nature of this 'island' forms.
There are hidden observation cameras both above and below the waterline, an underwater entrance and even a small submarine attached to a docking port on the bottom of the island.
Inside the island, there is a facility with walls and ceiling lined by some organic growth that must be as hard as enamel to supply the necessary support for it's own weight. A similar organic substance (of differing density) lines the floor.
There is a rudimentary plumbing system, mapping the same allowed some areas to be identified. There appear to be electrical lighting fixtures installed in the ceiling. The ceiling is about ten feet high and the top of the ceiling is just above the waterline.

Airlock - This is a typical setup indicating a room sealed by double doors. One set of doors is at the bottom of the structure, covered in cilia (yes, the swimming tentacles are enlarged cilia). There is a second set of double doors on the west leading into the rest of the facility.
Head - The plumbing attached to these rooms identifies them as bathrooms.
Hatch - These are simple hatches, with a wheel to be opened or closed. There do not appear to be locks on the hatches.

Lilibeth listened as Hikari and Winter hashed out the best way to approach the living island. She had been privy to such discussion before during her time in the Army but only as a wall flower really. The only times she had been to BUBs (Battle Update Briefs) and CUBs( Commander's Update Brief) was to basically act as an entourage for the medical officer. Not that she was the only one relegated to that role. Other lower enlisted had been present from the other sections.

She was sure it had been to expose them to how the higher ups did their work, in the unlikely eventuality that she would ever promote to that level. In practical terms though, it meant she spent half her time trying to stay awake and the other half fetching coffee, taking notes or being a runner.

She was happy to be part of a new team even if it did include some of the same boring activities she'd had to suffer through with the Army. She made sure not to give any outward sign of her thoughts though. It simply wouldn't do to let the team think she actually was bored. "No not bored really, just wishing I could help with something right now." "Patience," Runa said in their mind, "Soon they will decide on a plan and then we will be about it. Until then, we wait. I suggest you join me in prayers to Ishtar."

Lilibeth considered prayer but decided now wasn't the time. She didn't want to break off in the middle, which the Goddess might take as being rude, if the go signal was given. "No, you do that, I'll keep paying attention to them for when we are going."

Runa didn't respond but Lilibeth could 'hear' her praying to Ishtar. She focused on the map to try and memorize it, figuring it couldn't hurt.

"You used sonar to acquire this?" Winter Herald was studying the map. "Excellent work, although we must hope no one at an instrument panel understood what you were doing. At worst, though, they know someone is coming, but not in what configuration or timing. We will be fine, especially since they have not immediately fled. They believe they can handle what is coming, and..."

He looked around the room. "Well, they can't. The hard part of such a scenario would be keeping Holly out of danger."

He pointed to the room dominating the south of the map. "The large room at the south is likely command, while the central room is probably recreation or dining." He pointed to the airlock. "This is either where Doctor Phage does his thing, or where Holly Cook is located. The former is more likely. Holly is likely located..."

He paused, trying to comprehend where an irrational organic would place someone they valued that might not value them back. "I... don't know. We have seven possibilities. She is exorcising, so she is conscious, understands how to remain calm, and in good health."

"Is there something I am failing to see? Something obvious to an alternative mind? I cannot see as our enemy does, not in whole. My guess is telling me next to the southern room, but... that would be a better place for an archive, or storage."

In reply to Winter Herald (msg # 95):

Justicar comments, "...It was a pulsed ultrasonic scan modulated within a whalesong soundtrack... but also in conjunction with a penetrating radar pulse. I felt the gamble worth the risk for actionable intel."

"There is plumbing for seven bathrooms... likely part of cabin suites... we should account for at least eight potential hostiles... Provider, Dr. Phage And Holly Cook being included in that number.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:06, Fri 09 Dec 2022.

As of noticing Lt. Smohk for the first time, Lilibeth speaks to hum. "Lieutenant, I hope Runa's speaking to the crew earlier wasn't a bother or interferred with your ship's operation. She is a priestess after all so doing chaplain like things is kinda what she does. Lilibeth's tone makes it clear she wasn't apologizing for her other half's actions so much as expressing hope it had been well received.

In response to Hikari's mention of a portable lab kit, CMZ smiles.  Yes.  That will do.  And that room the Lt assigned us, he says.  I'm not an expert microbiologist, but I should be able to determine, from those samples, some of what we are up against over there.  And just how dangerous those "plants" might be.
If JUSTICAR provide him with both the lab kit and the samples, CMZ will take them to the cabin where he and Bellissima had spent time in meditation.  Suddenly he wishes he had taken those classes in forensic chemistry and biology.

In reply to Lt. Smohk (msg # 97):

Justicar looks at the Satellite footage and remarks, "...I fear the situation is deteriorating past any reasonable remote chance of getting Holly Cook, at least mentally, back.  The time is past doing any postulating.  We are only seven in number, we should pick three infiltration teams... personally I'd suggest ~ Senor Garcia and Winter Herald at Hatch A3, Chimpman Z, Bellissima, and Maharaja Hatch A2, and Runa, and I at Hatch A1.  Do you want me to explain Why Those specific teams for those specific hatches? Otherwise, we attack at 02:00. Is there anything more to discuss?!?"

Justicar will provide all the equipment needed for Chimpman Z setting up the mini-portable lab for his use.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:28, Sat 10 Dec 2022.

"I would like to hear your reasoning." Winter Herald was absolutely focused on Justicar. "What information do you have to rationalize that specific division of labor?"

Speaking to Jacob, Lilibeth says excitedly, "I might be able to help you! I had the required courses on biology and chemistry during AIT. If nothing else I can take down notes for you and maybe double check your findings."

She, like Winter it seemed, was curious about why Justicar had picked Runa to be with him but figured that the brilliant teenager had his reasons.

In reply to Winter Herald (msg # 101):

Justicar is silent for a few seconds then sighs...

"Hatch A3 is in an alcove along the central axis of the entire vessel and can almost provide LOS the entire length of the vessel along the only way to access all of the ship while providing Hard Cover.  It is a perfect sniper position for Senor Garcia.. especially with you Winter to provide tank cover and heavy close combat support.  You two can make sure no one gets to the escape submarine."

"Hatch A2 is the most isolated entry point ~ one way in and one way out.  Belissima can use that area to limit access to her so she can do her psionic assaults on Provider.. also there are two hatches for her to rip free to use as weapons.  Chimpman Z is invulnerable and he is her close in support and combat.  Maharaja is their backup as they move in and through the vessel to neutralize foes."

"Hatch A1 is closest to the likely engine room and perhaps laboratory of Dr. Phage. I am fully sealed against NBC environmental issues any biological spores, gas or poison attacks by the Doctor will be of very limited use against me.  I should be able to subdue the Doctor and deactivate the power systems of the Bio-Vessel hopefully stop them from using any technological weapons or gadgets they may bring to bear ... possibly seize control of the entire vessel from the main control.  Runa is my back up with her healing to support the other attack from hatch A2 ~ as needed."

"Its not any additional information other than knowledge of the specialties of the team and a tactical deployment of them... as best as I can perceive them."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:35, Sat 10 Dec 2022.

Your assistance would be greatly appreciated, Jacob says with a broad smile that reveals his sharp lower canines.  My schooling as a phyical therapist and paramedic taught me mostly biology and anatomy, but little chemistry.
They move to the room to set up,and he begins to run tests on the "plant" samples with her help.

21:43, Today: Chimp Man Z rolled 34 using 1d100.  Biology @ 60%.

A broad smile blossoms on Lilibeth's face at Jacob's words. "Let's do it!" she says and even pumps her fist in the air. Before she leaves to follow him, the petite blond woman looks at Hikari. "That makes sense to me," she says to him. "And Runa doesn't seem at all worried about spores or bacteria. I think that's because the goddesses blessing makes her pretty much immune to things like poison gas, viruses and stuff like that so you shouldn't have to worry about her."

She turns to follow Jacob to the make shift lab. As she goes she waves at everyone before dashing off after Jacob.

"You think the entire team should be deployed to scout out the vessel, to prepare for the SEAL team?" Winter Herald noted the size and scope of the field. "This is straight up an assault, at this point. Not what I was encouraging, but if combat is kept swift and short, surprise could be maintained, danger to the hostage minimized. We... could do this. My only modification would be what Senor and I would be doing. Our job would be to secure the submarine, not to merely control access to it."

"Modification considered reasonable or not, I have one question. The prior plan is entirely on me, success or failure. Are you taking responsibility for this plan, Justicar?"